Upper Limb Prosthetics
Upper Limb Prosthetics is our specialty. Our mission is to find the prosthetic solution that best meets your needs and restores your way of life.
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The number of upper limb amputations performed each year is significantly less than lower limb amputations. As a result, it is less common for a clinic to have internal expertise around prosthetic arm fittings. Our team has spent decades cultivating knowledge of this specialty area to ensure that we are meeting your goals. No single device can replace the human hand, and we are here to fill your toolbox with prostheses to help you return to a full life.
Body Powered Prosthesis
A body powered prosthesis uses cables harnessed strategically across the body to move the prosthetic elbow and or terminal device (hand/hook). This style of prosthesis is highly durable and functional and is a common option for a first prosthesis or for people who work at jobs requiring completion of heavy-duty tasks. Common options for body powered prostheses can be found at Fillauer, TRS, and Toughware.
Myoelectric
A myoelectric prosthesis uses sensors to detect electrical impulses of the residual muscles to move the terminal device, wrist, or elbow. Handspring clinicians are experts at programming both traditional and pattern recognition control of the prosthesis. We are trained in technology from the following companies:
Activity Specific
An activity specific prosthesis is designed to achieve one or a few specific tasks and is usually designed with hobbies, recreation or particular occupations in mind. Examples of this might include a prosthesis for kayaking, cycling, or welding. Often, activity specific attachments can be added to another style of prosthesis. Examples of these types of prostheses can be found at TRS and Texas Assistive Devices.
Passive Functional Prosthesis
A passive functional prosthesis is typically designed with aesthetics in mind and is used in a supportive capacity. The fingers are held in a position using friction mechanisms or wires and the prosthesis is shaped and covered to look like the other side. The fingers can be pre-positioned with use of a surface or the other side, and the arm can be used to perform activities such as supporting objects and holding paper down while writing. Handspring works closely with Livingskin and Prosthetic ArtWorks to design life-like prostheses.
Hybrid Prosthesis
A hybrid prosthesis combines both myoelectric and body powered or passive components. These prostheses provide the advantages of myoelectric control while reducing complexity and weight of the prosthesis. Common configurations include a myoelectric hand with body powered elbow for an above elbow prosthesis.
No Prosthesis
While there are many effective options for prostheses, it is common to also wear no device at various points throughout the day. The residual limb can be an effective tool for supporting during bimanual activities and providing sensation. Time spent with an occupational therapist is helpful for learning all the ways to accomplish activities of daily living using your residual limb combined with adaptive and everyday equipment.
Providing holistic, specialized care in upper & lower extremity prosthetic rehabilitation.